Thirty-eight-year-old Mr. Choi has been sentenced to 6 years for scamming people by claiming rights to BTS's portrait.

On April 11, Mr. Choi was sentenced to 6 years in prison during his second trial in the Seoul High Court for fraud by violating the Additional Punishment Law on Specific Economic Crimes. He previously requested an appeal when he was sentenced to 6 years in October of 2018.

According to reports, Choi ran a company selling products in collaboration with celebrities, and in January of 2017, he was charged with fraud for claiming the rights for BTS fan meetings and events and making 624 million Won ($546,960.96 USD). He also scammed fans in Japan by claiming exclusive portrait rights for 1.1 billion Won ($964,194.00 USD). 

The courts stated, "Looking at the overall situation and victim testimonies, it's clear Mr. Choi deceived the victims. The damage he caused to the victims is severe. Mr. Choi has also damaged the reputation of our nation by scamming people abroad. Not only has he marred BTS's name, but there are also victims who have not recovered from what he's done and hope for his strong punishment. We do not see any reason to reduce his sentencing."